The United Nations recently issued a report warning that if more serious action is not taken to cut emissions, the global climate could warm by 3.1 degrees Celsius. This is more than twice the agreed-upon limit set nearly a decade ago. The report highlights a lack of ambition and climate action by countries over the past three years, putting the goal of keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius in jeopardy.
Global greenhouse gas emissions have continued to rise, reaching a new high of 57.1 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Without greater action, temperatures are projected to rise between 2.6 to 2.8 degrees Celsius by 2100. This is a concerning trend, as the world has already warmed by about 1.3 degrees Celsius.
The upcoming COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, will be crucial in guiding countries as they update their emissions-cutting pledges. These pledges, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), are essential for curbing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing further temperature rise. The report suggests that countries must commit to significant cuts in emissions by 2030 and beyond to have any hope of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that world leaders must bridge the emissions gap to avoid a climate disaster. With global temperatures on the rise and the current trajectory pointing towards significant warming, the time for action is now.
As nations prepare to gather in Baku for the climate summit, the focus will be on increasing ambition and commitment to climate goals. Every effort to reduce emissions counts, and countries must work together to ensure a sustainable future for the planet. The stakes are high, but by taking decisive action, there is still hope to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.
